This work
examined the impact of garlic as feed-inclusion on the hematology, serum
proteins and enzymes, as well as, immunity of layer chickens. Day-old Isa Brown
chicks (500) were separated into four groups, A, B, C and D (with each group
having three replicates of 42 or 43 each), placed in rearing and given garlic
meal in feed at a rate of 0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5% and 0%,
respectively. Chickens (n=10, for each group) were randomly selected and
bled at 6, 13, 23, 42, 50 and 56 weeks of age for the assessment of
haematological parameters, serum proteins and enzymes using standard
procedures. ELISA methods were used to assess Newcastle disease (ND) and infectious
bursal disease (IBD), vaccinal immune response and interferon gamma (IFN-ɣ)
concentrations. Hemagglutination inhibition test was also used to determine ND
vaccinal immune response. Mean values were compared using Dunnett’s test
(p<0.05). PCV was significantly higher in Group D at 23 (29.7±0.78%) and 42
weeks-old (34.5±0.17%) while at 50 week-old, it was significantly higher in C
(32.5±0.5%) compared to control Group D (22.1±0.41%). Heterophilia in D at 13
week-old and lymphocytosis in B and C at 23 and 42 weeks-old resulted in
leucocytosis. Total protein values were lowest in D, albumin concentrations
were significantly higher in garlic groups at 42 and 56 weeks-old and globulin
concentrations were lowest in D. AST
level was significantly higher in B at 42 week-old and in A and C at 56
week-old without corresponding increase in CK. Newcastle disease and IBD
antibody titers were significantly lower in D only at 6 week-old. Increase in
IFN-ɣ concentration post-challenge were 22 and 40 pg/ml in A and B,
respectively, while it decreased by 51 pg/ml in D. Thus, garlic feed inclusion
resulted in lymphocytosis, increased level of serum proteins and enhanced
cellular immunity in commercial layers. However, with prolonged use, it could
cause hepatocellular damage.
Primary Language | English |
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Journal Section | Research Article |
Authors | |
Publication Date | December 25, 2018 |
Published in Issue | Year 2018 Volume: 15 Issue: 2 |
204x63
This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
Print ISSN:1302-3209 - Online ISSN:2147-9003
Journal of Poultry Research is indexed by the following national and international scientific indexing services